What is Perjeta?
Perjeta is a treatment for cancer that blocks the spread and growth of cancerous cells within the body. Perjeta is used in conjunction with other chemotherapy drugs (trastuzumab as well as docetaxel) to treat HER2-positive breast cancer. Perjeta is also employed for other purposes that are not covered in this medication guide.
Warnings
Perjeta could cause birth defects or even death to a baby who is not yet born. Don't use it if you are expecting. Do not become pregnant while taking this medication and for a minimum of 7 months after the last dose.
Perjeta can cause life-threatening heart problems. Your heart's function could be examined prior to starting the medication and also during the course of treatment.
Contact your physician immediately. If you notice a newly developed or worsening cough, breathlessness, or swelling of your legs,
Before you start taking this medicine
Don't use Perjeta if you have an allergy to pertuzumab or are nursing or pregnant.
Inform your doctor if you were ever diagnosed with:
- Heart disease heart disease, congestive cardiac failure heart rhythm disorders
- Untreated or uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension);
- A heart attack; or
- The radiation treatment you receive within your chest region
Do not take Perjeta when you are expecting. It can cause birth defects or even death for an unborn infant. Make sure you use effective birth control to stop pregnancy while taking pertuzumab and trastuzumab. You should also use it for at least 7 years after the treatment has ended. Inform your doctor immediately in case you fall pregnant.
If you're pregnant, then your name might be included on the registry for pregnancy to monitor how pertuzumab affects your child.
It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking Perjeta with trastuzumab. It is also recommended for up to 7 years after the last dose. Consult your physician regarding any risks.
What is Perjeta?
Perjeta is administered as an infusion into the vein. The healthcare professional will give the injection. Perjeta is usually prescribed every 3 weeks. Follow the doctor's advice. Perjeta can cause life-threatening heart problems. The function of your heart may require a check before you begin using pertuzumab as well as during treatment.
Do I be concerned if I miss a dose?
Contact your doctor for advice in the event that you don't make an appointment to receive the injection of Perjeta.
What will happen if I take excessively?
Because this medication is administered by a health expert in a medical environment, it is highly unlikely for an overdose to occur.
What should be avoided?
The medicine could be absorbed into the body fluids (urine, feces, and even vomit). At least for the first 48 hours after receiving the dose, you should not allow the body fluids of yours to come into contact with your hands or any other surfaces. Caregivers must wear rubber gloves when cleaning a patient's body fluids, handling trash that is contaminated or laundry, or changing diapers. Clean hands prior to and after taking off gloves. Clean soiled linens and clothes apart from the rest of the laundry.
Side effects of Perjeta
See a doctor immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, Perjeta: hives, breathing difficulties, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
Certain side effects can occur when you inject. Contact your physician immediately when you feel tired, weak, or nauseous, or if you experience symptoms such as a rapid beat, headache, fever, chills, muscle pain, or a distinct sensation in the mouth.
Contact your doctor immediately. If you suffer from:
- Dizziness and heartbeats that pound, or the feeling of fluttering around your chest;
- A new or worsening cough or shortness of breath
- Swelling in your lower legs;
- Lower blood-cell counts, such as chills, fever, mouth sores, skin sores, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, pale skin, hands, and feet sensation of lightheadedness;
- Indications of a tumor cell's breakdown in the form of weakness, confusion, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, a high or low heart rate, fewer urinations, and tingling sensations on your feet, hands, and around the mouth.
Your treatment for cancer could be delayed or completely stopped in the event of certain negative side effects.
Common Perjeta side effects are much more likely to happen, like:
- Nausea, diarrhea;
- Temporary loss of hair;
- High fever, low blood cell count;
- Tiredness;
- The rash or
- Numbness, tingling, or burning discomfort in your hands or feet
This isn't a complete list of all the side effects. Others could happen. Contact your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You may report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other medications can impact Perjeta?
Other medications may be incompatible with pertuzumab, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor all the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.
